About Burundi, Burundi, the Heart of Africa, the so commonly called ‘Heart of Africa’, Burundi is lying almost in the center of Africa with a shape like a heart. Burundi is a small country located on the shores of Lake Tanganyika. It lies between Tanzania in the east and south, Democratic Republic of the Congo in the west, and Rwanda in the north. With its warm climate, equally warm hospitality and interesting places to visit, Burundi is a country where it’s great to be a tourist.
About Burundi Culture and History
Burundi is a land of the warm-hearted welcoming people. If you don’t believe it, ask anyone who has a Burundian friend! When several Burundians of close acquaintance meet for a gathering, they drink impeke, a traditional beer, together from a large container to symbolize unity.
Capital: Bujumbura
Official language: Kirundi, French and English
Currency: Burundi Francs but foreigner currencies are used in most hotels and touristic areas like US Dollars, Euro.
About Burundi Climate
Burundi in general has a tropical highland climate, with a considerable daily temperature range in many areas. Temperature also varies considerably from one region to another, chiefly as a result of differences in altitude. The central plateau enjoys pleasantly cool weather, with an average temperature of 20° C (68° F). The area around Lake Tanganyika is warmer, averaging 23° C (73° F); the highest mountain areas are cooler, averaging 16° C (60° F).
Bujumbura’s average annual temperature is 23° C (73° F). Rain is irregular, falling most heavily in the northwest. Dry seasons vary in length, and there are sometimes long periods of drought. However, four seasons can be distinguished: the long dry season (June–August), the short-wet season (September–November), the short dry season (December–January), and the long-wet season (February–May). Most of Burundi receives between 130 and 160 cm (51–63 in) of rainfall a year. The Ruzizi Plain and the northeast receive between 75 and 100 cm (30–40 in).
When to visit Fall (March through May)
Humidity and temperatures combine to make this season feel warm. Highs range from 85.4°F (29.7°C) and 82.4°F (28°C) with similar temperatures in the later months. Rain is somewhat common with 2 to 6 days of significant precipitation per month. Fall is the slowest for tourism, which makes it a good time for those looking for deals.
Winter (June through August)
The middle-year months have very comfortable weather with high temperatures that are comfortable. These months see the least precipitation with 0 to 1 days of precipitation per month. June – August is the second busiest season for tourism in Burundi, so lodging and other accommodations may cost slightly more.
Spring (September through November)
Spring daily highs range from 87°F (30.6°C) and 83°F (28.3°C), which will feel very nice given the humidity and wind. It rains or snows a significant amount: 3 to 8 days per month. Tourism is fairly slow during these months due to the weather, so hotels may be lower priced.
Summer (December through February)
Weather is perfect this time of year in Burundi to be enjoyable for warm weather travelers. The average high during this season is between 85.4°F (29.7°C) and 81.2°F (27.3°C). On average, it rains or snows a fair amount: 5 to 6 times per month. These times of year are the busiest with tourists.
About Burundi food and Drinks
The people in Bujumbura love the three ’Ds’ – that is dining, drinking and drumming. You may add the fourth D – dancing – since it is logical that it follows the energetic drumming. First, the city offers a rich diversity of culinary delights to the surprise of many visitors. Its menu is influenced by a blend of diverse cultures ranging from nearby neighbors to distant lands across oceans.
One special feature of the menu is the unmistakable taste of the mukeke, a type of fish found only in Lake Tanganyika. Foods are usually freshly prepared, and you may be required to wait at least an hour after ordering to get served. But trust us – it is worth the wait, even if prices are a tad higher than in some other cities.
Apart from the local restaurants, there are several others like Greek, French and Asian restaurants in the city. Did we mention that the people love to drink? Of course, it is part of the three ‘Ds’ and one of the local draughts is called urwarwa wine made from banana and usually served during celebrations. They have a local beer known as impeke brewed from sorghum. However, regular wines and spirits can be obtained from several restaurants at hotels, and in bars and pubs elsewhere.